The Community Forest project at Killerton has engaged local schools, colleges, and community groups in planting trees across three locations: Columbjohn, Elbury, and Beare Farms. Over the course of the project, trees have been planted by over 750 members of the public and local community groups, including The Royal College of GPs, Exeter College, The Duchy School, Exeter City Community Trust, Devon Carers, University of Exeter, Bradnich Scouts, Met Office, Cornerstone Academy – Broadclyst and Westclyst Schools, Exeter Age UK, HIVE (home school group) and Cranbrook Education Campus. 

One of the project’s highlights includes the story of Josh Mills, a 10-year-old from Cranbrook Education Campus, who planted trees on land worked by his grandfather and great-grandfather at Elbury Farm. 

Josh’s mother Bekki said; “Josh was possibly digging the same land as his grandad and great grandad!  Sadly, they have both passed away now but they would have loved to hear about the tree planting too.”

Josh and his peers in years 3-6 at Cranbrook Education Campus walked to this site to plant 985 trees across 3 weeks – representing one tree per pupil at the school. 

More than 120 young people from Exeter College visited Columbjohn Farm as part of a student wellbeing initiative, planting native saplings and learning about the importance of trees in storing carbon. 

Lucy Welch, an A Level Environmental Science student, said: 

“The best part about tree planting with friends was making memories together for a good cause, especially when in a few years we can come back and see the difference when all the trees have grown, knowing that we helped to make a difference.” 

The tree species planted, including sycamore, elm, and oak, were selected for being native to the area, with the intention for them to become the veteran trees of the future, creating new habitats for native flora and fauna. 

Programme Leader in Maths and Science, Jon Read, said;

“The National Trust have provided us with a fantastic opportunity for our A Level Environmental Science students to get hands on experience of conservation. Our students helped to create a new habitat for native species of flora and fauna as well as providing an outdoor recreational space for locals to engage with, benefitting their health and wellbeing. 

“The tree planting, habitat management and agricultural practices are an essential part of the Environmental Science syllabus and the National Trust gave us tailored tours to increase our students learning and appreciation of countryside and conservation issues. A worthwhile visit for all our learners.“

This year, Exeter college students will continue to work with Killerton to design artwork, build wildlife boxes and monitor the establishment of trees and species populations over time. 

The initiative includes the addition of 6.9km of permissive paths and improvements to existing paths, enhancing public access to the new woodlands and the wider parkland.